Strawberry Begonia Saxifraga 'Cuscutiformis' (stolonifera) (5)
ABOUT
The Saxifraga 'Cuscutiformis', commonly known as Mother of Thousands, features a distinctive appearance characterized by its sprawling habit with numerous tiny plantlets forming on long, thin stolon-like structures which dangle delicately from the parent plant. The main body of the plant has rosettes of semi-evergreen leaves that are typically rounded with a slightly ruffled texture and a soft, green color, often with a hint of red or purple at the edges. The Mother of Thousands blooms with small, star-shaped flowers that can vary in color from white to pink, arrayed on erect, slender flower stalks. These blossoms provide a contrast to the green foliage and may attract attention during their blooming season. The plant is adept at reproducing itself through the plantlets that develop at the ends of the stolons, making it a prolific grower under the right conditions. The overall appearance of the plant is quite charming and delicate, with a cascading effect that makes it a favorite for hanging baskets or as a ground cover in rock gardens.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Saxifragaceae.
Synonyms
Strawberry Begonia, Strawberry Geranium, Creeping Saxifrage, Creeping Rockfoil, Roving Sailor, Aaron's Beard, Mother Of Thousands, Saxifrage Stolonifera.
Common names
Saxifraga stolonifera Curtis, Saxifraga sarmentosa.
ToxicityTo humans
Saxifraga stolonifera, commonly known as Mother of Thousands, does not have notable toxicity to humans. It is generally considered safe, and there are no well-documented symptoms of poisoning from ingestion of this plant. However, as with any non-food plant, individual allergies and reactions can occur, so it's advisable to avoid ingesting this plant unless deemed safe by a knowledgeable source.
To pets
For pets, Saxifraga stolonifera, or Mother of Thousands, is also not known to be toxic. There is no specific documentation of pets being poisoned by consuming this plant. It is generally considered safe for pets, but it's always a good practice to prevent pets from eating plants not meant for consumption, as individual reactions could potentially occur.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
6 inches (15 cm)
Spread
12 inches (30 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
6
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Easy to Grow: Saxifraga stolonifera is a hardy, low-maintenance plant that can thrive in a variety of conditions, making it suitable for both novice and experienced gardeners.
- Ground Cover: Its spreading habit makes it an ideal choice for filling in bare spots in the garden and providing a lush, green carpet over the soil.
- Aesthetic Appeal: The plant produces attractive rosettes of leaves and delicate, airy flowers that can enhance the visual appeal of any garden space.
- Pest Resistance: It is generally resistant to many common pests, reducing the need for chemical insecticides.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, Saxifraga stolonifera can tolerate periods of drought, making it a good choice for water-wise gardens or areas with water restrictions.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- The Mother of Thousands can be used in alpine and rock gardens for its attractive foliage and ability to spread over rocky surfaces, creating a lush ground cover.
- It may be incorporated in fairy gardens due to its small size and the presence of numerous tiny plantlets that give a magical, miniature landscape effect.
- This plant can serve as an indicator of over-watering when its leaves start to yellow, signaling gardeners to adjust their watering habits.
- In mixed container plantings, the Mother of Thousands can provide a contrasting shape and texture alongside other succulents or alpine plants.
- The plant is often used in education to demonstrate vegetative reproduction, as it easily propagates from the plantlets that grow on its leaves.
- It can be a living mulch in flower beds, helping to retain soil moisture and suppress weed growth due to its spreading habit.
- Its ability to grow in crevices makes it suitable to plant in green roofs or living walls, where its tolerance for drought is an advantage.
- Photographers and artists might use Mother of Thousands as a subject or backdrop due to its intricate leaf patterns and plantlets for close-up nature photography or botanical illustration.
- Gardeners can use this plant in hanging baskets, allowing the stolons and plantlets to drape over the sides for a cascading effect.
- Dried stolons with attached plantlets can be employed in the creation of natural art pieces or botanical decor, adding an interesting textural element.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Strawberry Begonia is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Strawberry Begonia is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Perseverance: The Saxifraga, or 'Mother of Thousands', symbolizes perseverance due to its hardiness and ability to grow in difficult conditions where other plants may not survive.
- Determination: This plant's stoloniferous growth habit, with stolons reaching out and taking root in new places, represents determination to spread and thrive against the odds.
- Protection: In some cultures, Saxifraga is believed to offer protection because it often settles in rocky crevices, implying safety amidst adversity.
- Tenacity: The 'Mother of Thousands' embodies tenacity, clinging to life in harsh terrains, serving as a metaphor for clinging to one's beliefs or convictions.
- Adaptability: Its ability to adapt to different environments and propagate itself efficiently signifies adaptability to life's changing circumstances.
WaterMother of Thousands requires consistent moisture but dislikes waterlogged soil, so it's important to water it when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Usually, watering once a week with about 8-16 ounces of water per plant should suffice, adjusting as necessary based on temperature and humidity. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure proper drainage. In winter, reduce watering to every other week, observing the plant for signs of drought stress.
LightMother of Thousands thrives in bright, indirect sunlight; direct afternoon sun can scorch its leaves. The ideal spot is near a window with filtered light or a spot that receives morning sunlight and afternoon shade. Adequate light is essential for the plant to maintain its compact form and vibrant foliage.
TemperatureMother of Thousands favors temperatures between 60-75 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal growth. It can survive minimum temperatures of about 50 degrees Fahrenheit, but prolonged exposure to cold can be detrimental. Avoid placing the plant in spots where temperature fluctuations are common, such as near heating vents or drafty windows.
PruningMother of Thousands benefits from occasional pruning to remove dead or yellowing leaves and to encourage bushier growth. Pruning is best done in the spring or early summer, using clean, sharp scissors. Prune as often as needed to maintain shape and remove damaged foliage.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Strawberry Begonia is a well-draining potting mix with organic matter, such as peat or compost, vermiculite for aeration, and perlite to retain moisture. This plant prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH range of 6.1 to 7.5.
RepottingStrawberry Begonia should be repotted every 1-2 years to replenish the soil and accommodate root growth. Springtime is ideal for repotting to minimize stress on the plant.
Humidity & MistingStrawberry Begonia thrives in a humidity level of around 50% to 70%. If the air is too dry, consider using a humidifier or pebble tray to maintain adequate moisture around the plant.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and maintain high humidity.
Outdoor
Grow in shade or part-shade in temperate climates.
Hardiness zone
6-9 USDA
Life cycleSaxifraga stolonifera, commonly known as Strawberry Begonia or Mother of Thousands, starts its life as a seed that germinates in moist, well-drained soil in partial shade. The seedling then develops into a rosette of rounded, scalloped leaves that are green above and often reddish underneath. As the plant matures, it produces long, thin stolons (runners) with new plantlets (offsets) at their tips, which eventually touch the ground and take root, forming independent new plants. During the late spring and early summer, Saxifraga stolonifera sends up slender stems topped with clusters of small, white flowers that have distinctive yellow spots and red veins. After pollination, these flowers may produce capsule-like fruits that contain seeds, allowing for sexual reproduction and genetic diversity. The plant continues to grow vegetatively and spread through its stolons, ensuring survival through both sexual and asexual means.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagation for Saxifraga stolonifera, commonly known as Strawberry Begonia or Strawberry Geranium, is through division of the runners it sends out, typically done in the spring. To propagate, one would carefully lift the plant and remove any of the stoloniferous offsets that have developed their own root systems. These can be gently teased apart and planted in a well-draining potting mix. The cuttings should then be watered thoroughly, and placed in a location with bright, indirect light and consistent humidity to encourage growth. It is important not to disturb the new plants too much as they establish themselves in their new environment. This method leverages the plant's natural tendency to spread and create clones of itself, making propagation a very efficient and successful process.
